## **SEALE, PUTTENHAM & WANBOROUGH PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL**
## **ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the year ended 31 DECEMBER 2023**
“Let the hearts of those rejoice who seek the lord” 1 Chronicles 16:10
St. Laurence Church, Seale, GU10 1HZ The Good Shepherd Church, The Sands, GU10 1LJ St. John the Baptist Church, Puttenham, GU3 1AR St. St. Bartholomew’s Church, Wanborough GU3 2JR
**You are invited to the Annual Meeting of Parishioners (for the election of Wardens and for the election of Deanery Synod and PCC members) and the Annual Parochial Church Meeting to review the work of the PCC for the year ended 31[st] December 2023**
**To be held on Wednesday 22nd May 2024 at 6.30pm At The Church of the Good Shepherd, The Sands All documents required for the meeting can be found within this pack.**
Correspondence address: The Rectory, Elstead Road, Seale, Farnham, Surrey GU10 1JA E-mail: rector@spw.org.uk Web Page:
Web Page: www.spw.org.uk
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## **CONTENTS**
**B. Minutes of the APCM meeting held on 24 May 2023 p 5 - 9 C. The Annual Report and Financial Statements for the year p 10 - 18 ended 31 December 2023 D. The Audited Accounts for the year ended 31 December 2023 p 19 to end**
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## A. AGENDA
## For the APCM meeting to be held on 22 May 2024
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**A.**
## **Parish of Seale, Puttenham and Wanborough**
## **Annual Meeting of Parishioners and Parochial Church Meeting At The Sands Church**
## **Wednesday 22 May 2024 at 6.30 pm**
## **AGENDA**
**1.** Opening Prayers
**2.** Apologies for absence
**Annual Meeting of Parishioners** _(All residents of Seale, Puttenham and Wanborough Ecclesiastical Parish whose names are entered on the Civil Electoral Roll, together with all members of the SPW Church Electoral Roll, are entitled to speak and vote at this meeting)_
**3. Minutes of the Annual Meeting of Parishioners** 2023 (May 24, 2023) & Matters Arising
**4. Election of 6 Churchwardens for 2024 two for Seale and Sands, two for Puttenham, two for Wanborough** _(written nominations must be submitted to_ the Rector by Midnight May 21)
**Annual Parochial Church Meeting** _(Only members of the SPW Church Electoral Roll may speak and vote at this meeting_
**5. Minutes** of the Annual Parochial Church Meeting 2023 & Matters Arising (not covered by the reports)
**6. Reports**
- (a) Rector’s Report ( _page 12 of Annual Report)_
- (b) Meetings of PCC (page 12 of _Annual Report_ )
- (c) Safeguarding Report ( _page 13 of Annual Report)_
- (d) Electoral Roll (Changes in membership) ( _page 13 of Annual Report)_ (e) Health and Safety ( _page 13 of Annual Report)_
- _(f)_ Fabric Report ( _pages 13-14 of Annual Report)_
- (g) Parish activities ( _pages 14-16 of Annual Report)_
- _(h)_ Deanery Synod Report ( _page 16 of Annual Report)_
- _(i)_ Financial Report and Accounts ( _pages 17 to the end)_
**7. Elections** ( _written nominations must be submitted to the rectory by Midnight 21 May prior to the meeting)_
- _(a)_ Election of Representatives to Deanery Synod (1 vacancy) _(b)_ Election of PCC members (no vacancies)
## **8. Appointments**
- (a) Sidespeople (defer to PCC)
- (b) Independent Examiner for 2024 (defer to PCC)
## **9. Any Other Relevant Business in the reporting year**
## **10. Closing Prayers**
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## B. MINUTES
Of the APCM meeting held on 24 May 2023
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PARISH OF SEALE, PUTTENHAM & WANBOROUGH
## **B.**
## **Minutes of the Annual Meeting of Parishioners and Annual Parochial Church Meeting Via Zoom Wednesday May 24, 2023 at 6.30 p.m.**
## **1) Opening Prayers**
The Revd. Stephen Thatcher opened the meetings with a prayer and welcomed all Zoom attendees.
## **2) Apologies for Absence**
Caroline Warburton, David Wilson, Jo Brown
The Rector briefly apologised to the attendees for the delay in the preparation of the Accounts, which was due to some procedural issues, now resolved.
## **3) Minutes of the Annual Meeting of Parishioners 2022 and Matters Arising**
Minutes of the 2022 Annual Parochial Church meeting had been distributed prior to the meeting. There were no comments on the Minutes and Chris Tuckwell proposed, seconded by Jan de Walden, that the Minutes be accepted as a true record.
Proposed: Chris Tuckwell Seconded: Jan de Walden
## **4) Election of six Churchwardens for 2023 two for Seale and Sands, two for Puttenham, two for Wanborough.**
The Rector advised the meeting that Elaine Whittle has announced her intention to stand down as one of the Seale & Sands Churchwardens. He thanked Elaine warmly for her contribution to the smooth running of the two churches and to the PCC. The Rector announced the following nominations for churchwardens
|Parish|Nominee
|Proposed (P) / Seconded (S)|Proposed (P) / Seconded (S)|
|---|---|---|---|
|Puttenham|Anne Concanen
|P:|Mary-Claire Cook|
||S:
Cilla Batters|||
||Vacancy|||
|Wanborough|Anne Concanen|P:|David Wilson|
||S:
Dee Bramley|||
||Vacancy|||
|Seale & Sands|Bridget Biddell|P:|Kathleen Smith|
||S::
Brian Tout|||
|Seale & Sands|Ann Payne
|P:|Marion Thorpe|
||S:
Audrey Bulbeck|||
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The above nominations were proposed at the meeting by Linda Thatcher, seconded by Philippa Tuckwell and unanimously agreed by the meeting attendees.
Proposed: Linda Thatcher
Seconded: Philippa Tuckwell
## **5. Minutes of 2022 Annual Parochial Church Meeting & Matters Arising**
There were no comments from the meeting attendees on the 2022 Annual Parochial Church meeting Minutes and these were unanimously accepted.
Proposed: Ann Payne Seconded: Elaine Whittle
## **6. Reports**
All reports had been collated in the Annual Report which had previously been posted on the SPWPCC website. The Rector made brief reference to individual reports and invited the meeting attendees to ask any questions or make comments if they wished.
## **(a)Rector’s Report –** see Annual Report page 12
The Rector praised the fund raising events which had taken place during the year but noted the decline in finances. He also thanked the Village News team for continuing to make an annual donation to the PCC. The Diocese is aware of the United Parish’s financial difficulties and the Bishop has offered support in running a stewardship campaign in the autumn to help to alleviate the financial problems. The Rector has requested assistance from the Diocese with introducing initiatives to encourage greater youth attendance at church; to this end a representative from the Diocesan Mission Enabler team will be visiting the United Parish at the end of the month.
The Rector was delighted to report that the Sands extension is virtually complete and huge thanks are due to Ann Payne for making this happen. Unfortunately increased costs have been incurred due to the rising cost of materials. Lunches at the Sands have recommenced and some profits from the Sands café have already contributed towards payment of the quota .
Digital giving has been set up in 3 of the churches and the Rector offered his thanks to Geoff Graham for his professional and timely completion of this project. Thanks also to Marion Thorpe for her running of the bible study course for the last 10 years and to Mike Thorpe for his outstanding work as PCC Treasurer.
The Rector stressed that the Parish should be proud that the church buildings continue to be well maintained and in good order and this is thanks to the dedication of members of the Parish. The same positive approach is needed, going forward, to try to increase the congregation.
The Diocese has commended the close working relationship between Puttenham School and the Parish and has made a representative video involving the Rector and school participants. The Rector also commended the weekly Open the Book sessions at the school and the huge amount of work undertaken by Anne Concanen, Chris & Philippa Tuckwell and Sarah Webster.
Mention was made of the successful bell ringers membership recruitment drive for Puttenham & Seale which has resulted in an additional 6 people joining in 2023.
The Churches are diligent about Health & Safety issues and a recent concern raised about the boundary fence at Puttenham has been resolved following consultation with our insurer, Trinitas Insurance, who have assured SPW PCC that current arrangements with the boundary fence meet necessary Health & Safety requirements.
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## **(b)Electoral Roll – see Annual Report page 13**
Very little change from last year.
## **(c) Annual Report, PCC and Parish activities –** see Annual Report pages 13-18
## **(d)Financial Report** – see Annual Report pages 18 - end
Phil Roche offered his thanks to Mike Thorpe for his work as Treasurer and the help he has given to Phil in the transference of accounts. It has been a difficult year especially with the cost of living crisis. The Parish Share continues to be a challenge, with a debt to the Diocese of £19.7k dating from 2020 and a further deficit of £16k in 2022 bringing the total debt to the Diocese of £35.7k. The Parish is grateful to the Diocese for its £2k donation to help with power costs. At the end of last year we transferred to a new church approved accounting system with a dedicated Treasurer laptop and Phil Roche was confident that this would simplify the transfer of the accounts to the next Treasurer when he stands down from the PCC.
Mike Cloughley requested clarification on a couple of points in the financial report , one of which, Phil Roche explained, referred to the transfer of funds from the Puttenham account to SWP account and the other to the resources expended on church activities, which Phil Roche explained related to Diocesan fees for weddings/funerals etc, charged in line with Diocesan guidelines.
## **(e)Fabric Report** – see Annual Report pages 15-16
Quinquennial Inspections – the Rector noted that all three churches are in good repair and offered sincere thanks to the ‘Friends’ of the Churches who have helped to ensure the that the buildings are kept in good order.
## **(f) Safeguarding – see Annual Report page 13**
## **(g)Deanery Synod – see Annual Report page 16**
There were no further comments on the Annual Report from the meeting participants. Elaine Whittle proposed and Ann Payne seconded that the Annual Report for 2023 be accepted, to which the meeting unanimously agreed.
Proposed: Elaine Whittle Seconded: Ann Payne
## **7. Elections**
## **(a)Deanery Synod (3 representatives)**
Caroline Warburton has confirmed her willingness to continue to represent the Parish on the Deanery Synod. Sarah Webster has now resigned as Deanery Synod representative. Anne Concanen’s 3-year tenure is due for renewal and her application was proposed by Susie Felix, seconded by David Wilson.
The meeting was unanimous in accepting the above nominations
Proposed by: Chris Tuckwell Seconded by: Phil Roche
- (b) **Election of PCC Members** (1 vacancy Puttenham, 1 vacancy Seale)
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Rhona Conn has indicated that she will be standing down as a PCC member for Puttenham. MaryClaire Cook has been proposed by Anne Concanen and seconded by Rhona Conn as PCC member for Puttenham
The nomination of Mary-Claire Cook was proposed as follows and agreed unanimously by meeting attendees.
Proposed by: Helen Roche
Seconded by: Sarah Webster
Sally Cooper has indicated that she would like to stand for the PCC as one of the Seale representatives and her nomination was proposed by Elaine Whittle and seconded by Ann Payne.
The nomination was approved unanimously by the meeting attendees.
Proposed by Chris Tuckwell Seconded by: Ann Payne
## **8. Appointments**
- (a) Sidespeople – to be discussed by PCC members at meeting following APCM
- (b) Independent Examiner for 2023 - to be discussed by PCC members at meeting following APCM
## **9. AOB**
John Hewitson suggested that future meetings be held in person rather than via Zoom, in view of the technical issues which occurred during the meeting. The Rector viewed this suggestion favourably.
Mike Cloughley voiced his concern about the serious state of the SPW finances and called for some drastic action to remedy the situation.
Sarah Webster wished to thank Anne Concanen and Chris & Philippa Tuckwell for their sterling work with the Open the Book programme
## **10. Closing Prayers**
The Rector concluded the meeting with The Grace.
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## C. THE ANNUAL REPORT
## AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
For the year ended 31 December 2023
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**C.**
## **SEALE, PUTTENHAM & WANBOROUGH PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS**
**For the year ended 31 DECEMBER 2023**
## **INTRODUCTION**
In compliance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006, the Parochial Church Council (PCC) of Seale, Puttenham & Wanborough have prepared this report and the attached financial statements.
The report summarises the activities and plans of the PCC, who now submit it for review by parishioners at the Annual Parochial Church Meeting (APCM) to be held on Wednesday 22 May at 6.30pm at the Church of the Good Shepherd, The Sands.
## **ADMINISTRATIVE INFORMATION**
## **Parochial Church Council**
The Parochial Church Council is a body corporate established by the Church of England. The PCC operates under the Parochial Church Council Powers Measure (1956). The PCC is now a registered Charity (Charity No: 1129466). During 2023, the following were members:
Rector: The Revd. Stephen Thatcher Curate: The Revd. Philip Roche (until July) Churchwardens: - Seale and The Sands Ann Payne (elected May 2023) - Elaine Whittle (until May 2023) Bridget Biddell (elected May 2023 - Puttenham Anne Concanen (elected May 2023)
-
- Wanborough Anne Concanen (Vice Chair/ Deanery Synod Representative (elected May 2023)
Elected Members:
- Seale and The Sands Bill Biddell (elected October 2020) Sally Cooper (elected May 2023) - Puttenham Rhona Conn (elected October 2020 – until May 2023 ) - Mary-Claire Cook (elected May 2023) David Melville (elected October 2020) - Wanborough Dee Bramley (elected October 2020) David Wilson (elected October 2020)
## _Additional ex-officio members:_
The Rev. Philip Roche Chris Tuckwell Sarah Webster (Deanery Synod Representative – until May 2023) Caroline Warburton (Deanery Synod Representative – elected May 2021)
PCC Secretary:
Dee Bramley
The appointment of members of the PCC is governed by and set out in the Church Representation Rules.
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## **6a RECTOR’S REPORT**
I am pleased to commend this APCM report given that 2023 was such a challenging year in so many different ways. The Churchwardens and PCC members are to be commended for meeting these challenges with positivity and a determination to plan for changes that will improve the Parish of SPW. Some of these have been mentioned elsewhere in the report such as the Parish Development Plan and the sensible review of worship.
We did not expect Phil and Helen Roche to leave SPW at fairly short notice. We enjoyed the farewell service and were able to express our gratitude for all they gave to the Parish. We wish Phil every success as the Priest in Charge of St Mark’s Farnborough and Helen who works alongside him as LLM and candidate for the Diaconate.
The individual reports have indicated the generous support we get from many different people. There are those who provide music, clean the buildings, provide flowers, refreshments after service, sacristan duties and keep our churchyards tidy. There are those who undertake sidespersons’ duties including our readers and intercessors, those who open and close our churches, ring bells and help in so many other ways. We thank you for these acts of God’s love. I also want to note the excellent work of our Friends and to thank Jeremy McIlroy as our independent examiner.
God Bless you all. The Rector
## **6b. MEETINGS**
PCC meetings during 2023 covered many different areas of business.
Service patterns were again reviewed because, following the departure of Phil and Helen Roche, current service patterns were unsustainable. After discussion, the PCC unanimously agreed to adopt a new and more manageable service pattern. The PCC also discussed the development of a new children’s service. Members of the PCC were delighted to vote to renew Chris Tuckwell’s licence. We were also delighted that both Kathleen Smith and Linda Thatcher were commissioned by Archdeacon Paul as pastoral Lay Visitors and given permission to distribute the reserved sacrament at home communion.
The PCC spent a considerable amount of time considering aspects of parish finance and also managing the finances when the Interim Treasurer left. In view of the fact that Rev Phil Roche had moved over to a new digital C of E accounting System, this brought its own challenges which the churchwardens had to take into consideration. They looked at energy costs, robust fundraising ideas and finding ways to reduce the serious debt to the Diocese caused by unpaid Parish Share. The PCC are awaiting a visit from the Diocesan Stewardship team who will share their knowledge of fund raising and effective initiatives.
Other items discussed and dealt with ranged from safeguarding and Deanery matters to building and repair projects around the parish. The PCC voted on plans by the Friends of Puttenham Church to improve disabled access at Puttenham and were in favour of the War Graves commission erecting signs at Wanborough and Seale. They also voted for Puttenham School to change its status and to become part of an Academy Trust.
The PCC presented a Parish Mission Plan which was required by the Diocese and supported and commended by the Archdeacon. This included a mission focus on attracting children to the church, the running of an Alpha course, a focus on stewardship and the development of pastoral hubs.
Thanks to all members of the PCC for their time, hard work and expertise, especially the Churchwardens on their considerable work on the church accounts.
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## **6c. SAFEGUARDING** _Anne Concanen_
As a PCC we are committed to the support, nurture and protection of everyone in our church community and, under the “Promoting a Safer Church” policy, creating a safe and caring place for all. We are committed to ensure that the safeguarding guidelines are followed in all parish activities and to ensure that any outside organisations hiring church premises comply with the parish safeguarding policy for children, young people and vulnerable adults.
PCC members follow the Diocese safeguarding training and people involved in leadership roles are also regularly DBS cleared as are those working with children for Open the Book.
To date there have been no concerns raised.
## **6d.THE ELECTORAL ROLE**
The Electoral Roll numbers up until December 2023
|The Electoral Roll numbers up|until December 2023|Dec 2023
125
84
27
14
**The electoral roll reflects**
**the death of several**
**staunch church members**
**and few movements out of**
**the United Parish.**|
|---|---|---|
||Dec 2022|Dec 2023|
|Total on ER|126|125|
|Seale total|85|84|
|Puttenham total|27|27|
|Wanborough total|14|14|
||||
## **6e. HEALTH & SAFETY**
All risk assessments have been carried out in the 4 churches including churchyards and curtilage.
PAT testing is up to date on all electrical equipment and fire extinguisher and alarms are in good working order.
## **6f. FABRIC MAINTENANCE**
**Church Architect:** Our Inspecting Architect for 2023 was **John Bailey** BA, BArch, RIBA, AABC.
## **Seale and The Sands -** _Ann Payne_
## **The Church of St Laurence**
Regular maintenance of the church has been carried out throughout the year and there are no further issues to report. The unstable churchyard wall bordering the churchyard and The Lyttons has now been beautifully repaired.
## **The Church of the Good Shepherd**
The internal works of the extension has now been completed, with the landscaping project to commence in the new year.
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## **Puttenham -** _Anne Concanen_
## **The Church of St John the Baptist**
All regular maintenance and servicing took place.
Work from the previous QI inspection was carried out during the year.
Repair to the stone copings at the East end chancel roof took place in May 2023.
In December a considerable amount of raking out and repointing work was done on both sides of the base of the tower and repair was made to loose roof tiles on the lower south west corner roof of the tower. At this time repair was also made to the damaged Chancel Window Tracery
The new Quinquennial Inspection was made in October and no other immediate repairs were required at the time.
During 2023 the PCC passed plans, conceived and funded by the Friends, to improve access to the church.
## **Wanborough -** _Anne Concanen_
## **The Church of St Bartholomew**
During 2023 all general maintenance work was done including PAT testing and servicing the fire extinguishers.
The church requires repointing work on the vestry roof and the south wall of the church and we are awaiting quotes from our local stone mason.
## **6g. PARISH ACTIVITIES**
## **The Bible Hub-** _Bill Bruce_
During the latter part of 2023, the Bible Hub commenced a study of each chapter, verse by verse, of John's Gospel. Held on the last Wednesday of each month it provides an informal, but informative approach and is much appreciated by those who attend. The group meets at The Good Shepherd, The Sands.
If you have any queries, and/or would like to join the group, please look in the Sunday Supplement for details. New members are most welcome.
## **“Open The Book** _”-Anne Concanen_
Throughout 2023 the Open the Book Story tellers successfully delivered a programme of Bible stories in lively, interesting and interactive ways. This varied from individual to group presentations and the story tellers especially enjoyed and valued the participation of the children.
I would particularly like to thank Chris and Philippa Tuckwell for their dedication to the OTB idea and for their invaluable input and participation, particularly while I was away.
We are really looking to build up our story telling team in 2024. If you would like to join us or just come and see what we do, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 01483 811017.
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## **Music in The Parish-** _Geoff Graham_
At long last, we were able to re-dedicate the William Hill organ at St John the Baptist in 2023. Katherine Dienes-Williams gave the instrument a thorough workout, with a splendid recital on the Saturday, while the Sunday service featured some excellent home-grown musical contributions.
The choir numbers have now declined to the point where sadly there is little point in holding regular practices, although a sprinkling of choir members are to be found in Puttenham and Seale churches, on alternate Sundays.
With the reduction in services, we no longer need Juliana and David to deputise; I would however like to thank them both for their support over the last few years.
## **Parish Bell Ringing** _- Andrew Baxter_
Bell ringing in the parish emphatically turned a corner in 2023, after several years of declining activity and the damage caused by Covid.
With the help of ringers from the Farnham District, of which our two towers are members, a recruitment Open Day was held at Seale in April. This event was successful, and a group of about 12 embarked on an intensive series of training sessions throughout the following months. Several starters dropped out for various reasons, but by year’s end we had a creditable band of nine ringers available within the parish, including several existing ringers. Currently we operate jointly in the two towers, and we are supported by other ringers as necessary. We ring for main services roughly alternately at Puttenham and Seale, depending on availability and service pattern.
This is obviously a very gratifying outcome, and we are immensely grateful for all the outside help we have received. As the year has progressed our band has improved steadily and is now ringing confidently and enthusiastically within the parish, and venturing out to other churches as opportunities arise.
**Headteacher: Anna De Filippis**
## **News from Puttenham CofE Infant School**
## **Academic Year 2023**
We have had a very successful year at Puttenham CofE Infant School. The community have once again come together to ensure our village school provides the very best education and experiences for our children. Our positive Ofsted report was published in January 2023 demonstrating our ‘outstanding’ status in three areas of the report and the overall ‘good’ judgement. Our close school and parish links continued with services, assemblies and pastoral support.
## **Admissions and transition**
We currently have 81 children on roll. We welcomed 27 children into the reception class in September with their families. Our current published pupil number is 30 children per year group. The majority of our year 2 children went to Waverley Abbey and Aldro Schools last year.
## **Academisation**
The governing body voted for Puttenham Infants to join an academy to ensure the sustainability and future of the school. The governors made the decision to join the Good Shepherd Trust following extensive due diligence. The Good Shepherd Trust are a network of schools who share common values and goals for our school communities. We aim to complete our transfer by the summer term 2024.
## **Anna De Filippis Headteacher**
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## **Puttenham School House** _- John Hewitson_
The Management Committee was established in 1987 to look after the School House and supervise the letting of this listed building ,when not required for the use of the Headteacher of Puttenham Church of England School . At the end of 2023,the Committee reported a cash balance of £27,621. Total expenditure on the upkeep of the house in 2024 is expected to exceed £10,000.
_( NB. Funds mentioned here are not reported as part of the Annual Accounts.)_
## **Village News** _- Dee Bramley (Editor)_
The Village News continues to be produced monthly under the editorship of Mary Adkins, Dee Bramley, Simon Prichard and Jane Randell. The magazine continues to be printed with 48 pages, consisting of local news articles and reports, events and advertisements. In 2023 with slightly less demand for the magazine, we reduced the number of copies printed from 590 copies to 570.
At the end of December 2023 we were still able to donate £1000 to SPW PCC, £200 to Phyllis Tuckwell and £100 each to Seale Village Hall, the Marwick Hall, Wanborough Village Hall and The Sands Room. It was also agreed that there was no reason to increase the cost of the adverts nor the cost of the magazine to subscribers, although we have been monitoring the increasing costs of printing.
At end December 2023, after making the above donations and payment of expenses the Village News accounts balance was £580.
## **The Shepherds Rest Café** At The Church Of The Good Shepherd, The Sands **-** Ann _Payne_
The clientele continues to increase, with the ‘special theme’ lunches being a sell out; it has proved to be a great asset to the community fuelled by volunteer participation.
## **The Tower Café** - At St John The Baptist Church, Puttenham **-** _Jo Brown_
The Tower Cafe on the second Wednesday of the month is an event that the Team really look forward to! A time to offer warm hospitality and community conversation to all ages of our lovely Puttenham residents as well as visitors from near and far.
The cakes, cream teas, coffee and tea are always excellent, served in our beautiful Church, making this such a special occasion.
We aim firstly, to bring people together in this holy place, and secondly, to raise funds for the church. We are particularly grateful to Rev. Stephen for attending.
To date, since we restarted the Cafe after the Pandemic, we have raised £1,362.43 This is thanks to our amazing Team and Supporters.
## **6h. GODALMING DEANERY SYNOD 2023** _Anne Concanen_
The newly elected Godalming Deanery Synod met first in May and later in November 2023.
At the first meeting, the Area Dean thanked new members for coming and stressed the value of Synod in church life. He gave the example of the changes made to recent marriage legislation which were brought about as a result of our Deanery being pro-active in questioning proposed new rules.
Being a member of Synod was not an onerous job but it was vital that members represented their parishes in Deanery planning and informed their PCC what was going on in Diocesan Synod and above.
Some important issues raised -:
Modern Slavery – a global problem but also present in our area – How we can raise awareness in the parishes?
The Racial Justice Covenant
Parish needs.
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## **6i REVIEW OF FINANCE** _SPW Churchwardens_
## **INTERIM TREASURER’S REPORT FOR YEAR ENDED 31/12/2023**
## **Thank You**
Thank you to Phil Roche for his work as Interim Treasurer until he left us in July.
We would also like to thank Mike Cloughley, very much for his dedicated work in claiming back tax on gift aided donations. It makes a real difference.
Another thank you is owed to Geoff Graham for managing the electronic giving stations. Although initially there was rather a slow response to digital giving, in 2023 it certainly come into its own and donations each month provided welcome extra giving.
## **Finance Review**
2023 continued to be a difficult year financially as the Parish of SPW, like many others, continues to redevelop its finances following the events of the last few years. The PCC are very grateful for the generous support of parishioners who have given of their own resources during the year. This giving was only marginally impacted by the cost-of-living increase.
However, the increase in costs for utilities amongst other things was very heavily felt. In 2022 the utility bills for all 4 churches was £6,173 whereas the sum in 2023 rose to £16,639 despite careful usage.
We were therefore very grateful for money raised through specific events such as the Christmas Extravaganza at Myrtles, the Tower Café, concerts, a tombola stall, historical talks and sales to name just a few. The PCC wish to thank all the volunteers who have given their time to support the work of the parish by organising and attending these events.
## **Parish Share**
The PCC entered the financial year with a historical debt of £35,695 of unpaid parish share from 2020 and 2022.
In 2023 the Parish share was £84,087. The PCC were able to pay £43,776 towards this leaving an in-year payment deficit of £40,311.
The PCC is aware that in 2024 a generous legacy is to be received by SPW which will enable payment of the Parish share.
The PCC will need to prepare substantial and robust plans to meet future Parish Share obligations. This has already been mentioned in the Parish Development Plan.
## **Glebe Cottage**
The PCC are grateful receive rental from Glebe cottage, which makes an important contribution to the parish finances
## **Cost of Living Support**
Guildford Diocese Board of Finance reported a surplus for 2022 and offered £1000 back to each parish in 2023.
## **Reserves Policy**
In accordance with Charity Commission rules the PCC is required to state its policy for the management of reserves:
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**Investment policy:** The PCC has selected managed restricted funds into which it invests the money from historic legacies.
## **Restricted Reserves Policy:**
These funds are from historical legacies which are restricted to the upkeep of the churches of St John the Baptist, Puttenham and St Laurence, Seale. They are held in secure investments with the aim of achieving some income and growth; these funds are used for the general maintenance of the churches and churchyards. The investments are held such that should there be a cash requirement it can be readily realised.
## **Statement of Accounts**
## **The full Statement of Accounts is appended to this report in section D**
SPW ANNUAL REPORT 2023 AND ACCOMPANYING DOCUMENTS
18
## D. THE AUDITED ACCOUNTS
For the year ended 31 December 2023
SPW ANNUAL REPORT 2023 AND ACCOMPANYING DOCUMENTS
19
## **SEALE, PUTTENHAM and WANBOROUGH**
## **PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL**
## **FINANCIAL STATEMENTS for the year ened 31st DECEMBER 2023**
## **Bank**
Lloyds Bank plc Castle Street, Farnham
## **Independent Examiner**
Mr Jeremy McIlroy The Street, Puttenham
## **Interim Treasurers**
The Churchwardens of the Parish of SPW
## **Independent Examiner's report to the PCC of Seale, Puttenham & Wanborough**
I report on the accounts for the year ended 31st December 2023 which are set out on pages 2 to 6
## **Respective responsibilities of the PCC and the Independent Examiner**
The charity’s trustees consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 144(2) of the Charities Act 2011 (the 2011 Act) and that an independent examination is needed.
## **Basis of this report**
My examination was carried out in accordance with the General Directions given by the Charity Commission.
An examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts, and seeking explanations from the management committee concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not provide all the evidence that would be required in a full audit, and consequently I do not express an audit opinion on the accounts.
## **Independent examiner's statement**
In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:
- (1) which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements:
- to keep accounting records in accordance with s.130 of the 2011 Act; or
- to prepare accounts which accord with these accounting records have not been met; or
- (2) to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached.
**Signed Date:**
SPW Statement of Accounts 2023
1
## **SEALE, PUTTENHAM AND WANBOROUGH PAROCHIAL CHURCH COUNCIL**
**Statement of Financial Activities for the year ending 31st December 2023**
|**Description**
**Note**
**Unrestricted**
**Funds**
**INCOMING RESOURCES**
Voluntary Income
2a
£56,463
Activities for generating funds
2b
£5,938
Income from Investments
2c
£22,749
Church Activities
2d
£5,813
Other incoming resources
2e
£0
**TOTAL INCOMING RESOURCES**
**£90,963**
**RESOURCES EXPENDED**
Church Activities
3a
£127,821
Major works/repairs to church/ PCC property
3b
£1,012
Generation of Voluntary income
3c
£243
Fund-raising costs
3d
£0
**TOTAL RESOURCES EXPENDED**
**£129,076**
**NET INCOMING RESOURCES BEFORE**
**OTHER RECOGNISED GAINS AND LOSSES**
(-£38,113)
**GAINS AND LOSSES ON INVESTMENTS**
on revaluation
6b
£17
Transfers between funds
£2,305
£5,670
(-£2,000)
£377
**NET MOVEMENT IN FUNDS**
(-£31,744)
**BALANCES BROUGHT FORWARD AT 1st JAN**
**(-£27,876)**
**BALANCES CARRIED FORWARD AT 31st DEC**
**(-£59,620)**
**Balance Sheet as at 31st December**
**FIXED ASSETS**
Investment assets
6b
**CURRENT ASSETS**
Debtors
Short term deposits
CBF deposits -upkeep & education fund
£554
Schroder Deposit
Cash at banks
£15,832
Cash in hand
**LIABILITIES**
Amounts falling due within one year
5
(-£40,311)
Amounts falling due after one year
(-£35,695)
**NET CURRENT ASSETS**
(-£59,620)
**NET ASSETS**
**(-£59,620)**
£0
**FUNDS**
Unrestricted
(-£59,620)
Puttenham Restricted Funds
Seale Restricted Funds
The Sands Restricted Funds|**Puttenham**
**Restricted**
£2,305
**£2,305**
**£0**
£2,305
£5,646
(-£2,305)
(-£343)
£5,303
**£69,374**
**£74,677**
£74,677
£0
**£74,677**
£0
£74,677|**Seale**
**Restricted**
£4,758
**£4,758**
£5,388
**£5,388**
(-£630)
£4,277
(-£5,670)
(-£34)
(-£2,057)
**£65,444**
**£63,387**
£52,641
£10,746
£10,746
**£63,387**
£0
£63,387|**Sands**
**Restricted**
**£0**
£2,000
**£2,000**
(-£2,000)
£2,000
£0
**£0**
**£0**
£0
£0
**£0**|**TOTAL**
**2023**
£56,463
£5,938
£29,812
£5,813
£0
**£98,026**
£127,821
£8,400
£243
£0
**£136,464**
(-£38,438)
£9,940
£0
(-£28,498)
**£106,942**
**£78,444**
£127,318
£11,300
£0
£15,832
£0
(-£40,311)
(-£35,695)
(-£48,874)
**£78,444**
(-£59,620)
£74,677
£63,387
£0|**TOTAL**
**2022**
£68,648
£7,663
£27,508
£5,350
3119|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
||||||**£112,288**|
||||||£122,333
£41,052
£0
£1,269|
||||||**£164,654**|
||||||(-£36,366)
(-£16,297)
(-£68,663)
(-£68,648)|
||||||**£175,590**|
|||||||
||||||**£106,942**|
||||||£122,921
£11,938
£154
£7,625
£0
(-£16,000)
(-£19,695)
£106,942|
||||||**£106,942**|
||||||(-£27,875)
£69,374
£65,444|
SPW Statement of Accounts 2023
2
**£63,387 £0**
**£78,444 £106,943**
SPW Statement of Accounts 2023
3
## **Notes to the Financial Statements for the year ended 31 December**
## **1 ACCOUNTING POLICIES**
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Church Accounting Regulations 2006 together with applicable accounting standards and
**Funds** Restricted funds represent (a) income from trusts or endowments which may be expended only on those objects specified in the terms of the trust or bequest and Ann Mitchell Fund Seale PCC was left a legacy in 2004 by Ann Mitchell for the upkeep of Seale Church and its churchyard. This money is invested by CCLA and Schroders and is used for the upkeep and maintenance of Seale church and churchyard. Sands Church Extension Appeal fund This appeal was started to raise funds to pay for the extension to the Church of the Good Shepherd in The Sands Sands Fabric Fund The PCC was given a donation from the family of Alison Ball for the upkeep and maintenance of the Church of the Good Shepherd in the Sands, this brought about the formation of the Sands Fabric fund which is being used to pay for the design and construction of the extension completed in 2022 and all payments made Seale Education Fund Part of the capital from the sale of Seale School was put into a charity for educational purposes for Seale Parish; in 2015 due to administration problems the charity was closed and the funds were transferred to a Seale PCC deposit account where it is used to cover Parish educational expenses.
Hugh Morgan Fund In 1994 a bequest was recieved from Hugh Morgan of one half of his residual estate to be applied for such of the purposes of Section 5 of the PCC (Powers) measure 1956 as are charitable, with a wish (not binding) that it be used for the benefit of choir, organist and promotion of music in Puttenham church. This money is invested by CCLA and Schroders.
Unrestricted funds are available for all ordinary purposes of the PCC.
## **Incoming Resources**
All incoming rsources are accounted for when they are received.
## **Resources expended.**
All expenditure is accounted for when it is incurred and is accounted for gross
## **Fixed Assets**
Consecrated and benefice property is not included in the accounts in accordance with S.96(2)(a) of the Charities Act 1993 **Moveable church furnishings**
Movable church furnishings held by the Rector and churchwardens on special trust for the PCC and which require a faculty for disposal are inalienable property, listed in the church’s inventory which can be inspected at any reasonable time. For anything acquired prior to 2000 there is insufficient cost information available and therefore such assets are not valued in the financial statement. Subsequently no individual item has cost more than £1,000 so all expenditure has been written off when incurred.
## **Investments are valued at market value at 31st December.**
SPW Statement of Accounts 2023
4
|**2 INCOMING RESOURCES**
2(a) **Voluntary Income**
Planned giving
Gift Aid Donations
Tax recovered
Other (CAF)
Collections at services & Digital SDS
Other giving / sundry donations
Contribution from Friends FOSL
GDBF Fuel Support Grant
Designated income
Total
2(b) **Activities for generating funds**
Fund-raising -
Christmas Fundraising Event
Tombola Stall
Bric a sale brac
Concerts
Other
Café
Total
2(c) **Income from Investments**
CBF Deposits - Ed Fund Withdrawal
Dividends/interest
Realised profit on sale of shares
Property Rental income
Total
**Income from church activities**
Bookstall/ 00S
Fees wedding/funeral etc
Total
2(e)
**Other Incoming Resources Transfers**
Total
**TOTAL INCOMING RESOURCES**|**Unrestricted**
**Funds**
£30,798
£7,806
£25
£11,063
£2,371
£1,720
£1,000
£1,680
£56,463
£4,250
£180
£0
£540
£221
£747
£5,938
£22,749
£22,749
£60
£5,753
£5,813
£0
**£90,963**|**Puttenham**
**Restricted**
£0
£0
£2,305
£2,305
£0
£0
**£2,305**|**Seale**
**Restricted**
£0
£0
£4,638
£120
£4,758
£0
£0
**£4,758**|**Sands**
**Restricted**
£0
£0
£0
£0
£0
**£0**|**TOTAL**
**2023**
£30,798
£7,806
£25
£11,063
£2,371
£1,720
£1,000
£1,680
£56,463
£4,250
£180
£0
£540
£221
£747
£5,938
£0
£6,943
£120
£22,749
£29,812
£60
£5,753
£5,813
£0
£0
**£98,026**|**TOTAL**
**2022**
£37,502
£8,203
£0
£10,297
£6,891
£0
£0
£5,755|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|||||||£68,648|
|||||||£1,039
£0
£304
£1,250
£5,070
£0|
|||||||£7,663|
|||||||£154
£2,653
£0
£24,701|
|||||||£27,508|
|||||||£10
£5,340|
|||||||£5,350|
|||||||£3,119|
|||||||£3,119|
||||||||
|||||||**£112,288**|
SPW Statement of Accounts 2023
5
|**3 RESOURCES EXPENDED**
3(a) **Church activities**
Missionary and Charitable giving
Overseas
Home: Puttenham C of E School
Others
Total
Ministry: Parish Share
Other ministry costs
Diocesan & Clergy Fees
Church: Utilities
Insurance
Maintenance costs
Service costs/children's work/outreach
Upkeep of Churchyard
Books etc
Salaries
Costs related to other church property
Admin, Printing and Stationary
Bank charges & Management Fees
Designated expenses
Total
3b **Major works / repairs to church & PCC property**
Puttenham
Seale
Sands
Total
3c **Generation of Voluntary income**
Digital giving phone cards
Total
3d **Fund-raising costs**
Expenses at Fundraising events
Total
**TOTAL RESOURCES EXPENDED**|**Unrestricted**
**Funds**
£0
£84,087
£1,537
£1,575
£16,639
£5,307
£3,343
£1,043
£945
£460
£9,751
£850
£358
£246
£1,680
£127,821
£1,012
£1,012
£243
£243
£0
**£129,076**|**Puttenham**
**Restricted**
£0
£0
£0
£0
£0
**£0**|**Seale**
**Restricted**
£0
£0
£5,388
£5,388
£0
£0
**£5,388**|**Sands**
**Restricted**
£0
£0
£2,000
£2,000
£0
£0
**£2,000**|£0
£84,087
£1,537
£1,575
£16,639
£5,307
£3,343
£1,043
£945
£460
£9,751
£850
£358
£246
£1,680
£127,821
£1,012
£5,388
£2,000
£8,400
£243
£243
£0
£0
**£136,464**
**TOTAL**
**2023**|**TOTAL**
**2022**|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|||||||£0|
|||||||£76,059
£1,749
£2,944
£6,173
£6,853
£8,095
£1,378
£37
£0
£10,584
£3,167
£789
£309
£4,197|
|||||||£122,333|
|||||||£41,052|
|||||||£41,052|
|||||||£0|
|||||||£0|
|||||||£1,269|
|||||||£1,269|
||||||||
|||||||**£164,654**|
SPW Statement of Accounts 2023
6
## **3(a) Overseas Charities**
When possible the Parish supports overseas charities, when collections are taken and donated to designated charities working overseas
**4** No payments were made to membesr of the PCC apart from the reimbursement of expenses
|**5 Liabilities**
Amounts falling due within one year
Unpaid Parish Share 2023
Amounts falling due outside one year
Unpaid Parish Share 2022
Unpaid Parish Share 2020
Parish Share for 2023 of £84087|**Unrestricted**
**Funds**
£40,311
£16,000
£19,695
**£76,006**|**Puttenham**
**Restricted**
**£0**|**Seale**
**Restricted**
**£0**|**Sands**
**Restricted**
**£0**|**TOTAL**
**2023**
£40,311
£16,000
£19,695
**£76,006**|**TOTAL**
**2022**
£16,000
£16,965|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|||||||**£35,695**|
Liabilities falling due outide one year is unpaid Parish Share for 2022 and 2020.
This has been accounted for in previous years Statements of Financial Activities but is shown here for reference only.
## **6 FIXED ASSETS FOR USE BY THE PCC**
## (a) Property
Glebe Cottage was gifted to the parish was valued in 2020 at £700,000. It is held in trust by the Diocese of Guildford.
Legal advice has been sought, and with the approval of Guildford Diocese Board of Finance, the PCC has let the property under an assured shorthold tenancy agreement
|(b) **Investment Fixed Assets**
**Market Value as at 1 January 2023**
Profit on sale of investments
Revaluation
Restricted Shares
Transfer to general funds
**Market Value as at 31 December**
**Holdings as at 31 December**
**Restricted Funds**
**Hugh Morgan Legacy**
Shares Held
44386.13- Cazanove Charity Multi Asset Fund Z
5186.75- CBF Church of England Global Equity
1512.19- CBF Church of England Investment Fund
**Ann Mitchell Fund**
Shares Held
34411.87- Cazanove Charity Multi Asset Fund Z
4071.51- CBF Church of England Global Equity
1183.86- CBF Church of England Investment Fund
(d)**DEBTORS**
Sundry|**Unrestricted**
**Funds**
**£0**
**£0**
**£0**
**£0**|**Puttenham**
**Restricted**
**£69,032**
£5,645
**£74,677**
£24,799
£15,695
£34,183
**£74,677**
**£0**|**Seale**
**Restricted**
**£53,889**
£120
£3,932
(-£5,300)
**£52,641**
£19,226
£12,321
£21,094
**£52,641**
**£0**|**Sands**
**Restricted**
**£0**
**£0**
**£0**
**£0**|**TOTAL**
**2023**
**£122,921**
£120
£9,577
(-£5,300)
**£127,318**
£24,799
£15,695
£34,183
£19,226
£12,321
£21,094
**£127,318**
**£0**|**TOTAL**
**2022**|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|||||||**£139,218**|
|||||||(-£16,297)|
|||||||**£122,921**|
|||||||£24,128
£13,659
£31,244
£18,706
£10,722
£24,461|
|||||||**£122,921**|
||||||||
|||||||**£0**|
SPW Statement of Accounts 2023
7